Quick Summary: Yes, most Big Shot Archery targets are designed to be reversible. This feature allows you to double the lifespan of your target by simply flipping it over when one side becomes too worn out from repeated arrow impacts. Always check the specific model instructions to confirm.
Welcome, archer! Choosing the right target makes practice much more enjoyable and safe. You’ve likely invested in a Big Shot target because they are sturdy and popular for practice. A common question for new target owners is: “Can I flip this thing over?” It’s frustrating to see a good target degrade quickly. We want our gear to last! The good news is that maximizing your target’s life is usually very easy. This guide will clearly explain the reversibility of Big Shot targets, show you why this matters, and give you simple steps to do it correctly. Let’s make your practice sessions last longer!
Understanding Target Life and Reversibility
As beginners, we want to shoot often! Every arrow that hits the target helps us improve. However, every hit also slowly wears down the material. High-quality targets, like those made by Big Shot, are built tough, but they aren’t indestructible. Understanding whether your target can be reversed is key to smart financial planning and practice longevity.
Why Target Reversibility Matters for Beginners
For someone just starting out, arrows don’t always land perfectly in the center. You might be scattering shots around the edges or hitting the same spot repeatedly while you work on form. Reversibility provides an immediate, free fix for targets showing wear.
- Extends Life: The most obvious benefit is doubling the usable life of the target face.
- Even Wear: It ensures that wear and tear are distributed across the entire block, not just the center aiming point.
- Cost Savings: Replacing large, quality targets can be expensive. Reversing them saves you money for more arrows or practice time!
- Consistency: A fresh side can sometimes offer slightly better stopping power, though this is more noticeable on foam targets than woven bag targets.
The Big Shot Lineup: Are They All Reversible?
Big Shot produces several types of targets, primarily known for their high-density foam blocks and bag-style targets. While the company designs for durability, reversibility is a key feature, especially in their core block models.
Big Shot Foam Block Targets (e.g., The Yellow Jacket, Field Points Block)
These are the most common targets enthusiasts use and are almost always designed to be reversible. They usually have a distinct, layered construction that allows them to be handled equally well from either side. These typically feature multiple kill zones printed on different faces.
Big Shot Bag Targets
Bag targets function differently. They use loose filler material (like shredded cloth or specialized poly fibers, often referenced in safety guides like those from the USA Archery Association) compressed inside a durable cover. Bag targets are inherently reversible because the target area is the entire bag surface, not one specific printed face. You simply turn the bag to a different side when the current shooting area starts to feel too soft or damaged.
Specialty Targets (3D and Layered Foam)
Be mindful of specialty targets. If you have a 3D animal target, it usually is not designed to be reversed. Similarly, some layered, high-end targets that use screw-in stopping layers may have specific top and bottom orientations for structural integrity.
How to Confirm Your Specific Big Shot Target Is Reversible
Before you try to flip or rotate your target, always confirm the intended use for your specific model. Trusting the manufacturer’s instructions is the safest bet.
Step 1: Check the Original Packaging or Manual
If you still have the box, the reversibility feature is almost always advertised clearly on the front or side panels. If you tossed the box, look for the model number stamped on the side of the target block.
Step 2: Inspect the Target Faces
A reversible target will usually have clear aiming dots or zones printed on both the front and back surfaces. If one side is completely blank or shows structural components (like securing straps or hard plastic backing), it might not be intended for reversal.
Step 3: Search the Manufacturer’s Website
Take the model name or number and search the official Big Shot website or a reputable retailer. Searching the specific model name (e.g., “Big Shot Reaper Target instructions”) will usually yield a PDF manual or product description confirming its features.
The Simple Guide to Reversing Your Target Block
If you determine your foam block target is reversible, the process is incredibly straightforward. There is no disassembly required for the standard, single-piece block targets.
Tools You Might Need (Usually None!)
- Your archery gloves (optional, for grip).
- A clear, safe area to work.
- Inspect the Current Shooting Side: Look closely at the face where you have been shooting. Note how deep the arrow holes are and if the material feels significantly less dense than the sides or bottom.
- Clear the Area: Remove any arrows stuck in the target. It’s easiest to flip when empty.
- Grip Firmly: Grab the target securely. Foam blocks can be heavy depending on the size and density. Try to grip the target near its center of mass if possible.
- Flip or Rotate:
- For Front/Back Reversal (Most Common): Flip the entire block end-over-end so the previously shot side faces the ground.
- For Side Reversal (If applicable): Some larger square blocks allow you to rotate it 90 degrees to shoot a fresh side face. This is common if the aiming zones are printed on all four large sides.
- Place on Shooting Stand: Set the target down firmly on your stand or bale holder, ensuring the new side is perfectly flat and stable for shooting.
Tips for Maximizing Wear Across All Sides
Simply reversing the target isn’t enough; you need to practice smart shooting habits to get the absolute most out of your investment. Think of this as balancing your practice routine.
| Practice Goal | Smart Target Rotation Tip | Why This Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Improving Accuracy Grouping | Shoot only the center dot on Side A until it is significantly degraded. Then, flip to Side B and shoot only the new center dot. | Prevents unnecessary wear around the edges of the primary aiming zone. |
| Form Practice/Warm-up | Use the periphery or secondary rings on Side A. When tired, flip to Side B for light cleanup shots. | Spreads the initial impact energy across a larger surface area before committing to precise shots. |
| Target Longevity Strategy | For every 5 times you shoot Side A, rotate the target 90 degrees instead of just flipping it top-to-bottom. | This utilizes all four vertical faces before the top and bottom faces give out, maximizing the density usage. |
The Importance of Arrow Pull Technique
How you remove your arrows significantly affects the target material. Hard pulling damages the fibers or foam structure more than necessary, leading to blowouts and faster degradation where you don’t want it.
- Pull Straight: Always pull the arrow out in a straight line, directly opposite the angle it entered.
- Grip Near the Insert: Hold the arrow shaft as close to the target face as possible when pulling. This provides better leverage and puts less stress on the fletchings or nock.
- Avoid Twisting: Twisting the arrow while pulling widens the hole substantially. Keep it straight!
When is a Side No Longer Usable? (Knowing When to Flip)
Even if your target is reversible, there comes a point where continued use on one side becomes detrimental, or even unsafe if dealing with penetrating foam cores.
You should mark a side as “done” and flip the target when you notice any of the following characteristics:
- Arrow Penetration: If the arrow passes completely through the target block, even if only occasionally, STOP using that side immediately. This means the density is too low to safely stop your arrows.
- Excessive Hole Enlargement: If the holes where previous arrows have been shot are becoming noticeably much larger than the diameter of your arrow shaft, the structure is breaking down.
- Noticeable Soft Spots: If you tap the target face and one area feels mushy or significantly softer than the surrounding material, that area is compromised.
- Visual Degradation: If the main aiming points are shredded so badly that you can no longer clearly define the scoring rings, it’s time to flip for better practice focus.
Remember the context: If you are shooting low-poundage beginner bows (like 20–30 lbs), the target will last much longer than if you are using high-poundage modern compound bows (60+ lbs). Always match your expectation of lifespan to your draw weight, as outlined in general archery safety guidelines.
Troubleshooting Reversible Targets: Common Beginner Issues
Even simple tasks can sometimes cause confusion. Here are a few quick fixes for common reversible target hurdles.
Issue 1: The Target is Stuck to the Stand
Sometimes, the friction from the stand or rubber feet causes the target block to “stick” slightly when you try to lift it for reversal.
Solution: Lift slowly and evenly on opposite sides. If it really clings, try gently rocking it side-to-side to break the static seal before lifting.
Issue 2: The Arrows Won’t Come Out of the New Side
This is often due to temperature or humidity changes affecting the foam, making it grip the arrows tighter.
Solution: Check your arrows. Are they slightly wider than normal? If they feel stuck, try applying a very light coat of silicone spray (sprayed onto a paper towel, not directly onto the target) around the arrow shaft where it enters the target. Never use WD-40 or oily lubricants, as these break down foam over time.
Issue 3: The Target Rotates When Shot
If flipping the target caused the printed zones to become slightly off-center relative to your usual stance, the target might spin slightly when hit hard.
Solution: Ensure the bottom surface is completely flat against your shooting platform. If you use a stand, you can often strap the base of the target block down lightly to prevent rotation without hindering its ability to stop the arrow.
FAQ: Beginner Questions About Big Shot Reversible Targets
Q1: How long should a reversible Big Shot target last if I only shoot one side?
A: This depends heavily on your bow’s draw weight and how often you shoot. A beginner shooting 30 lbs a few times a week might get 3–6 months of solid use from one side before needing to flip it.
Q2: Can I shoot broadheads or field points on the same reversible side?
A: Absolutely not. Never mix them. If you switch to broadheads, you must use a dedicated broadhead target. Mixing them will ruin the exit side of your target immediately and is dangerous.
Q3: Do I have to flip the target every time I shoot?
A: No. You only need to flip the target when the current shooting surface shows significant wear (deep holes, softness). Until then, focus your shots on that one side to maximize the life of the remaining faces.
Q4: I see aiming dots on the top and bottom. Does that mean it’s a four-sided target?
A: Usually, if there are dots on the top and bottom, it means the target is a standard block designed to be flipped (front to back). If the sides also have zones, you can rotate it to use those sides as well, effectively giving you more life.
Q5: What is the best surface to place my reversible target on for shooting?
A: Place it on level, firm ground or a dedicated stand. Placing it directly on uneven or soft grass can ruin the flat backing surface, meaning even a fresh side won’t stop arrows effectively.
Q6: If I reverse a bag target, do I need to reposition the straps?
A: For most Big Shot bag targets, you simply rotate the bag. The straps are usually designed to hold tension regardless of which side is facing forward. Just make sure the bag sits squarely in its frame if you use one.
A Friendly Conclusion on Target Maintenance
Owning a Big Shot target puts you in a great position for consistent, quality practice. The excellent news is that for the majority of their popular foam block targets, the answer to “Are Big Shot Archery Targets Reversible?” is a confident yes! This simple design choice is one way they help archers like you get more value and more arrows downrange.
Remember that your target is your silent practice partner. Treat it well by occasionally flipping or rotating it. By checking for wear, pulling arrows straight, and utilizing all available sides, you ensure that your gear supports your growing skills safely and affordably. Keep practicing, enjoy the process, and happy shooting!